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5 Future Travel Destinations We Have On Our Radar

By Betsy Wuebker 64 Comments

(Last Updated On: January 24, 2020)

Part of the fun of full-time travel is figuring out where you’re headed. These intriguing destinations are currently on our radar:

1. India

Those of you who follow us on Facebook may remember that we’d planned an extended stopover in Mumbai on our way to Europe from Singapore. That didn’t happen due to a misinterpretation of visa-on-demand requirements on our part, and disinclination of India’s High Consulate in Singapore to process paperwork in sufficient time to allow us entry and exit in accordance with plans we were unable to change. This disappointing (and intimidating, truth be told) experience notwithstanding, we still have the Taj Mahal and other experiences on our list, but in the meantime it has broadened. A guided tour from Saga Travel caught our eye because it not only includes the Taj Mahal, but also looks after all the details like those that got away from us. Additionally, we’d like to consider venturing into the northern region, where Leh Ledakh Tourism offers a variety of excursions throughout the state of Jammu and Kashmir. 

future travel destinations

Taj Mahal – Photo Credit: Saga Travel

2. Antarctica

Because it’s the 7th continent (not that we’re counting – okay, maybe we are!) and because. . . penguins!!! This one is going to take some doing, but it’s not impossible. We’ll be investigating all manner of work-arounds from the traditional excursions. Already we’ve heard several different ideas which save money on what can be an experience that runs into the 5 figures. This destination is going to take some research and ingenuity. We’ll keep you posted.

3. The Balkans

We visited Central Europe last year on our way to the Sochi Olympics, and we want more experiences in this region. Specifically, we want to go off the beaten track. Albania, Bulgaria, Montenegro, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Macedonia and even Serbia are contenders. The appeal is on multiple levels: for sure there is the “less-visited” factor. But even more appealing is that these are primarily non-Schengen designated destinations, which means we can extend our time in Europe in excess of the 90 days we’re allowed in Schengen territory this summer.

future travel destinations

Budva, Montenegro – Photo Credit: Saga Travel

4. Uruguay 

Not just because Uruguay ranks first in Latin America in terms of democracy, peace, lack of corruption, freedom of the press, size of middle class, prosperity and security. Not just because Uruguay’s economy, innovation, infrastructure and per capita income is high. Not just because Uruguay performs well on personal rights, tolerance and inclusion issues. Not just because Montevideo has the highest quality of life of any city in Latin America. More because Montevideo and Uruguay might be a little less fancified, a little more authentic, and – just perhaps – more interesting in their own right. 

5. South Africa and Namibia

Last year in Prague, we met a young man from Namibia who was there studying on an agricultural exchange. What? Isn’t Namibia only sand dunes? We were fascinated by his stories, and vowed to visit. Right next door is South Africa, with a gazillion opportunities to immerse in a wildlife experience. Whether that takes the form of a traditional safari or something more unusual, who’s to say at this point? All we know is this region beckons.

future travel destinations

Namibia – Photo Credit: Saga Travel

While it’s probably not possible for us to see all these destinations in the space of the next year (or even two), they keep popping up when we discuss plans for the future. It has been interesting to reflect on places we really, really want to see and how our ideas and plans have modified. Also, we think it’s always okay to reserve the right to change your mind about future travel destinations, too, so maybe this list could change!

How about you? What future travel destinations are on your radar?

Disclosure: This article was written for the friendly folks over at Saga Travel which offers unforgettable experiences to inspire over-50 travelers. From the perfect independent getaway to VIP door-to-door service in exotic destinations, Saga provides unbeatable travel value in the style you choose.

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Filed Under: Travel

Comments

  1. Ana O says

    April 23, 2015 at 3:24 am

    Out of all these destinations, I’ve been to one: Uruguay. Both Montevideo and Colonia are worth a visit. Good selection of places, BTW!

    Reply
    • Betsy Wuebker says

      April 23, 2015 at 3:03 pm

      Hi Ana – Great to know about Colonia! Thank you! 🙂

      Reply
      • Ana O says

        April 24, 2015 at 6:42 am

        I forgot to mention Punta del Este, the playground of the rich and famous.

        Reply
        • Betsy Wuebker says

          April 25, 2015 at 3:45 am

          Hi Ana – Oh yes! Because we’re all that and then some! 🙂

          Reply
  2. Suze The Luxury Columnist says

    April 24, 2015 at 12:34 am

    I definitely want to visit the Balkans, I’ve heard such great things about Montenegro and Bulgaria has some amazing churches apparently

    Reply
    • Betsy Wuebker says

      April 24, 2015 at 4:54 am

      Hi Suze – I was just looking at a hotel in Sofia this morning, part of the SPG luxury collection. Something ridiculous like $60/night on SPG escapes for a short time. Crazy!

      Reply
  3. Anita @ No Particular Place To Go says

    April 25, 2015 at 1:19 am

    We also have the non-Schengen countries on our list of future travels with the plan to spend our first 3 months in Europe between Spain and Portugal and then (maybe) Albania and Bulgaria for the required three months out of the Schengen area. Maybe we’ll run into you somewhere…

    Reply
    • Betsy Wuebker says

      April 25, 2015 at 3:47 am

      Hi Anita – Wouldn’t that be fun? Can’t wait to see what your itinerary looks like!

      Reply
  4. Manfred says

    April 25, 2015 at 3:43 am

    We’ve been in the Balkans for the last month. I’d highly recommend coming here. So far we’ve been to Zagreb, Split, Dubrovnik, Kotor, Budvar, Mostar, Sarajevo and back to Split. Heading up the coast next. Beautiful.

    Reply
    • Betsy Wuebker says

      April 25, 2015 at 3:47 am

      Hi Manfred – Wow, you’re really covering a lot of places. How are you getting around? Driving or public transport?

      Reply
  5. Toni | 2 Aussie Travellers says

    April 25, 2015 at 3:59 pm

    I was so jealous when Drew got to go to Antarctica without me … twice! It was work to tell the truth but I still I want to go there so much, I hope you’ll share some of your alternative travel options from your research.

    Reply
    • Betsy Wuebker says

      April 27, 2015 at 2:16 pm

      Hi Toni – We’ll definitely share once we get going on the research. This destination will be a long-term project to arrange. 🙂

      Reply
  6. Jennifer says

    April 25, 2015 at 5:47 pm

    I like your list! I’ve made it to South Africa, but I’d go again. Enjoy and I’ll look forward to reading your stories.

    Reply
    • Betsy Wuebker says

      April 27, 2015 at 2:17 pm

      Hi Jennifer – We’d go again to almost everywhere we’ve visited, too. 🙂

      Reply
  7. zof says

    April 25, 2015 at 5:58 pm

    Great selection of places. I love the Balkans and I keep returning there. Just got a ticket to Sarajevo yesterday, I’m going to Bosnia in September, can’t wait.

    Reply
    • Betsy Wuebker says

      April 27, 2015 at 2:17 pm

      Hi Zof – You’re not alone. We keep hearing from people who are enchanted with this region and that’s why it made the list.

      Reply
  8. Claudia says

    April 25, 2015 at 7:50 pm

    LOVE IT when you state: “More because Montevideo and Uruguay might be a little less fancified, a little more authentic, and – just perhaps – more interesting in their own right.” SO TRUE. I have visited pretty much all of Latin America. Uruguay was my last stop on my latest trip. And I absolutely loved it. I have a post on it on my blog, if you need more info to start planning your trip 🙂

    Reply
    • Betsy Wuebker says

      April 27, 2015 at 2:19 pm

      Hi Claudia – So happy to read your comment and I’ll be sure to check out your post. I love how the Universe validates an idea by putting resources in front of us when we put it out there! Thanks!

      Reply
  9. Escaping Abroad says

    April 25, 2015 at 8:06 pm

    That’s a great list and all of them are future destinations of my own! Some of mine are Palau (for the jellyfish lake and diving), Columbia, and Myanmar 🙂

    Reply
    • Betsy Wuebker says

      April 27, 2015 at 2:19 pm

      Hi Escaping Abroad – If we’d done a top 10 list, Myanmar would have made it! 🙂

      Reply
  10. Patti says

    April 25, 2015 at 10:16 pm

    That’s quite an impressive list! Funny, none of them are on our radar (at least not now), but the Balkans would probably take the lead on our list. I’ll look forward to reading about you “passing thru!”

    Reply
    • Betsy Wuebker says

      April 27, 2015 at 2:22 pm

      Hi Patti – Each of us is unique as a traveler and it sure makes life interesting to follow others along on their own journey, as we are with you. 🙂

      Reply
  11. Joe Ankenbauer says

    April 25, 2015 at 10:49 pm

    Antarctica! You’ll love it! I can’t wait to read about what your trip there!

    Reply
    • Betsy Wuebker says

      April 27, 2015 at 2:22 pm

      Hi Joe – Have you been? It’ll be a while before we get there, but we do intend to. 🙂

      Reply
  12. Stephanie says

    April 25, 2015 at 10:03 pm

    Oooh, India is high on my list of countries to travel to too although I’m a bit apprehensive about how safe it would be for a solo female traveller. Antarctica really is the final frontier of travel, it’s so expensive to get to!

    Reply
    • Betsy Wuebker says

      April 27, 2015 at 2:21 pm

      Hi Stephanie – Your apprehension is shared about India, for sure. But we keep hearing that it can be a wonderful experience for the prudent solo female traveler as well. And yes, Antarctica is the final frontier.

      Reply
  13. Saana / Always Abroad says

    April 26, 2015 at 5:14 pm

    I visited Bulgaria as a teenager and really advise you to stay away from the tourist destinations if you are interested in the local way of life, although you probably weren’t planning a trip to Sunny Beach anyway. Have you visited the North of Europe? I’m from Finland myself and Northern Europe offers a very different experience compared to other European countries – the nightless nights, when the sun doesn’t set at all, are something that tourists come to experience every summer 🙂

    My favourite countries in Europe, however, are Italy, where I live part time, and the UK, where I studied for 3 years. You won’t find better food in the world than in Naples, Italy, and nothing compares to the London vibe – a city you won’t get tired of in a million years.

    Reply
    • Betsy Wuebker says

      April 27, 2015 at 2:25 pm

      Hi Saana – No, we’re not really ones for tourist destinations and would prefer to get off the beaten path to the less-visited locations as much as possible. That said, Sofia would still be on the list. I’ve been to Norway and would love to return to Scandinavia and visit the Baltic region as well. If this list were 10 destinations on our list, the Baltic region would have been on it.

      Reply
  14. Yvonne says

    April 27, 2015 at 5:38 pm

    Uruguay! I have never been but I did live in Chile and visited Buenos Aires twice. I have a friend who moved there from America and is in love. He always raves about how great it is over there, it intrigues me and it is definitely on my bucket list as well.

    Reply
    • Betsy Wuebker says

      April 29, 2015 at 11:44 pm

      Hi Yvonne – We’ve only heard the most positive feedback on Uruguay. Great to have more!

      Reply
  15. Lyn aka TheTravellingLindfields says

    April 28, 2015 at 8:05 pm

    We have only been to one of the destinations you mention. Uruguay and we just loved it but not for any of the reasons you mention. It is just a really nice place with friendly people and very easy to travel in. David won’t go anywhere without a car and Uruguay is the only Sth American country where I haven’t been terrified most of the time – lol. If you do go, don’t miss Colonia del Sacramento.

    Reply
    • Betsy Wuebker says

      April 29, 2015 at 11:45 pm

      Hi Lyn – Hahaha the way people drive in other countries can be terrifying indeed. Glad to hear Uruguay gets positive marks from you!

      Reply
  16. Josie says

    April 28, 2015 at 8:59 pm

    Hi Betsy,

    It’s good to have a goal . . .

    And in your case the goals are super-cool! I agree with all of your reasons — plus love the lovely way you romance the words. I hope you make your travel plans come true in the not too distant future.

    South America is especially intriguing with diversity and landscape galore. Plus friendly locals and deep heritage.

    Wishing you safe and happy travels,
    Josie

    Reply
    • Betsy Wuebker says

      April 29, 2015 at 11:46 pm

      Hi Josie – Thank you so much. We have yet to have any experience with South American culture and destinations and we want to remedy that.

      Reply
  17. Paula McInerney says

    April 28, 2015 at 9:12 pm

    I love all of your choices, particularly the Balkans, India and Uruguay. Actually I love them all and will be so interested where you decide to go. We have many on our radar also and it is a toss up for us as where next. I think it is time to turn our globe around a bit as we seem to have mainly visited and re-visited Europe and Asia and obviously the South Pacific. Might be time for a spin soon.

    Reply
    • Betsy Wuebker says

      April 29, 2015 at 11:51 pm

      Hi Paula – That’s a great way to put it – give the globe a spin! 🙂

      Reply
  18. santafetraveler says

    April 29, 2015 at 7:06 am

    Hope you get to all these places! Interesting list.

    Reply
    • Betsy Wuebker says

      April 29, 2015 at 11:52 pm

      Hi santafetraveler – Hope we do, too! 🙂

      Reply
  19. Irene S. Levine says

    April 29, 2015 at 7:46 am

    Uruguay and South Africa are on my bucket list too! for many of the same reasons:-)

    Reply
    • Betsy Wuebker says

      April 29, 2015 at 11:52 pm

      Hi Irene – Very appealing, aren’t they? 🙂

      Reply
  20. Carol Colborn says

    April 29, 2015 at 11:39 am

    Well…our list is almost like yours…and we are tackling one of them this October! The Balkans! Then we figure out when the rest will be! And add Australia to the list!

    Reply
    • Betsy Wuebker says

      April 29, 2015 at 11:53 pm

      Hi Carol – That’s exciting! Hope you make it to Australia soon, too. 🙂

      Reply
  21. Nancie says

    April 29, 2015 at 5:24 pm

    Would love to visit any or all of these! This is a year of change for me (or maybe not), so I have no idea where I’ll be going next. I really want to get back to Europe (Portugal has been on my radar for a while), while the Euro is low.

    Reply
    • Betsy Wuebker says

      April 29, 2015 at 11:53 pm

      Hi Nancie – Yes, the Euro is pretty even with the dollar at the moment so Europe is very affordable. 🙂

      Reply
  22. Donna Janke says

    April 29, 2015 at 7:02 am

    What an exciting list of destinations. I look forward to reading about your travels.

    Reply
    • Betsy Wuebker says

      April 29, 2015 at 11:52 pm

      Hi Donna – Thank you! 🙂

      Reply
  23. Juergen | dare2go.com says

    April 29, 2015 at 11:23 pm

    If you can try to explore the Balkans in a hired car! The small towns and rural places, off the beaten track, have more charm and cultural heritage than the main cities.

    Reply
    • Betsy Wuebker says

      April 29, 2015 at 11:54 pm

      Hi Juergen – Great tip! Although I do admit that the language barrier is somewhat intimidating when it comes to street names, etc. 🙂

      Reply
  24. Sue Reddel says

    April 30, 2015 at 9:04 am

    I’m with you on Antarctica and South Africa. There’s so many different and wonderful places in the world the list just keeps changing for me.

    Reply
    • Betsy Wuebker says

      May 2, 2015 at 2:18 pm

      Hi Sue – Yes, when we learn about new places, chances are pretty high we add them to the list, too.

      Reply
  25. Carole Terwilliger Meyers says

    May 1, 2015 at 9:38 am

    Your to-do list sounds great. I just ticked off one from my own list–China. I’m resting up for the next one, which will probably be Tahiti. Then India and Africa down the line.

    Reply
    • Betsy Wuebker says

      May 2, 2015 at 2:21 pm

      Hi Carole – Sounds great, and I can so relate to the resting up part.

      Reply
  26. The Gypsynesters says

    May 1, 2015 at 9:41 am

    Wow, it’s like you read our minds! All but Uruguay are on our list too.

    Reply
    • Betsy Wuebker says

      May 2, 2015 at 2:22 pm

      Hi Gypsynesters – Sometimes I wonder about the effect of the travel blogging bubble on destinations choices. At TBEX we’ve heard a lot of “I’m going to the Balkans right after this.”

      Reply
  27. Zascha says

    April 30, 2015 at 8:43 pm

    Oh I definitely want to go to Antarctica and yes, it is just because of the cute penguins! 😀

    Reply
    • Betsy Wuebker says

      May 2, 2015 at 2:18 pm

      Hi Zascha – At first I thought it might not be a “big enough” reason to go, but then I thought “Why not?” 🙂

      Reply
  28. Suzanne Stavert says

    May 1, 2015 at 3:23 am

    Love your list. Antarctica and South Africa are way at the top of the list. Very different destinations. All we need is time … and money! 🙂

    Reply
    • Betsy Wuebker says

      May 2, 2015 at 2:21 pm

      Hi Suzanne – Yes, our needs are quite simple when you think about it, aren’t they? 😉

      Reply
  29. Linda Bibb says

    May 1, 2015 at 11:14 pm

    India and Antarctica are both tops on our list, as well. We can’t say enough good things about the Balkans; a good choice, that. You must go!!! We managed to spend a few days in Croatia and Montenegro a couple of years ago while we were on an Adriatic cruise and it’s given us serious Balkan fever.

    Also, we were suitably impressed with their wines, so much so that we now look for them whenever we can. Thanks to so many years behind the Iron Curtain Balkan wines are relatively unknown, but they used to be as popular as French or Italian, if not more so. Fun fact: Winston Churchill’s favorite wine was from Macedonia (present day FYROM) and he liked it so much he ordered it by the barrel.

    Reply
    • Betsy Wuebker says

      May 2, 2015 at 2:24 pm

      Hi Linda – I’m so happy to hear this about the Balkans. And I am so interested to read your post on Adriatic ports. Everyone seems to have loved the region. Fun fact about Winston Churchill, too. Thanks! 🙂

      Reply
  30. A Cook Not Mad (Nat) says

    May 3, 2015 at 11:18 pm

    What a great list, I wouldn’t mind traveling to any of these wonderful places. Look forward to seeing how your itinerary morphs.

    Reply
    • Betsy Wuebker says

      May 8, 2015 at 11:22 pm

      Hi Nat – Thank you so much. 🙂

      Reply
  31. suhail malik says

    April 14, 2019 at 4:41 am

    i am from banglore and i wish to visit tajmahal thanks for sharing
    valley trip

    Reply
  32. Raj Singhaniya says

    January 6, 2020 at 5:06 am

    Thank you so much for sharing your knowledge with everyone.

    Reply

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Aloha! We’re Betsy and Pete Wuebker. We traveled the world full time for close to four years and have visited almost 50 countries. If you’re a curious and thoughtful traveler, you’re in the right place. No matter if you’re new to travel or an old hand, we can help you refine your bucket list!

Here’s to a happier, travel-centered life!

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